Togo

Safety and security

Emergency phone numbers

Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes and providing emergency services.

• Dial 117 for emergency services

Terrorism

Terrorists and their supporters may target U.S. citizens abroad.

Terrorists may target:

• Large public events (sporting contests, political rallies, demonstrations, holiday events, celebratory gatherings, etc.)
• Popular hotels, clubs, and restaurants
• Places of worship
• Schools
• Parks
• Shopping malls and markets
• Public transportation (subways, buses, trains, and commercial flights)

Terrorist groups

Violent terrorist groups are active along the border region in northern Togo. They have targeted Westerners in attacks and kidnappings throughout the Sahel region. 

• The areas near the border with Burkina Faso have also seen attacks against security forces and the general population. Do not travel to the northern border areas of the Savanes region. 
• The Government of Togo restricts travel of foreigners into the Savanes region and requires special approval for foreigners to travel to this area.  
• The Togo border area northeast of Kande, near Benin, also saw terrorist activity in May 2022. Exercise caution when traveling in this area. 

Crime

Avoid traveling at night outside of Lome because of insecurity and poor road conditions. There is lack of infrastructure, emergency response capability, and quality medical care. 

• Criminals are active in Togo, especially the Savanes region. 
• Petty theft occurs in large market areas. Criminals commit opportunistic crimes like pickpocketing, vehicle break-ins, etc.
• Public demonstrations are infrequent but can result in police response. They can cause significant disruptions.
• Small groups of armed individuals sometimes set checkpoints outside of urban areas to seek bribes. 

Scams

Follow the Department of State guidelines to protect yourself from scams.

If you are a victim of a scam, learn how the FBI can help.

Be careful when using dating apps or online dating websites while abroad. Scammers may target U.S. citizens. 

• Tell your friends and family where you are. 
• Meet in a popular public place.  
• Avoid consuming suspicious food or drinks.
• Avoid traveling alone to bars or nightclubs.

Financial scams and internet romance scams are common in Togo. Be careful of anyone asking for money, especially those who start a "romantic" relationship online or claim local authorities want money. Scams often begin through online posts, emails, or letters. Scammers often pretend to be U.S. citizens in need of help.

Common scams include:

• People claiming to be U.S. military personnel
• People claiming to be detained or hospitalized abroad
• Romance and online dating
• Money transfers
• Grandparent and relative targeting
• Lotteries
• Inheritance notices
• Work permits and job offers

If using dating apps or websites in Togo:

• Criminals may use dating apps to target potential victims for robbery or assault.
• Let your friends and family know where you are and consider sharing your location on your phone.
• Meet in a popular public place.
• Tell your family or friends all the details about the person you are meeting and how you met them (which app).
• Set up and talk using a video call before agreeing to meet in person.
• Avoid locations where you can be isolated, like hotel rooms, private apartments or houses.
• Never leave food or drinks unattended at a bar or restaurant.
• Observe the preparation of your food or drink order when possible.
• Refuse offers of food or drinks from strangers.
• Have a communication plan with friends or family. Send updates to them on an agreed schedule

Victims of crime

Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes. You may report crimes to the local police by dialing 17 for police emergencies. Contact the U.S. Embassy in Lome for consular assistance during normal operations and after-hours at + 228-22-61-54-70 . 

Review our information for Victims of Crime.

The U.S. Embassy in Togo can:

• Replace a stolen or lost passport.
• Help you find medical care.
• Assist you in how to report a crime to the police.
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent.
• Provide general information regarding the criminal justice system.
• Provide a list of local attorneys. We do not endorse or recommend any specific attorneys.
• Provide information on victim’s compensation programs in the United States.
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States or limited medical support in cases of need.
• Help you find accommodation and options to travel home.

Sexual assault and domestic violence

• U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault and domestic violence are encouraged to contact the U.S. Embassy in Lome  and local law enforcement for assistance.

Technology use abroad

Mobile devices are vulnerable to compromise, theft, and damage anywhere in the world. Follow these safe practices.

• Update all software (operating system and apps) before leaving the United States.
• Use reputable U.S.-based VPN or VoIP applications.
• Don’t connect to public Wi-Fi networks.
• Research the safety of routes recommended by GPS. The fastest route is not always the safest.
• Be cautious using dating apps abroad, as scammers often target U.S. citizens.
• Drones, satellite phones, or other technology may be illegal or restricted

GPS

Prior to using GPS abroad:

• Research the route recommended by the GPS.
• The fastest path may not be the safest.
• It is common for people to exchange their location via a GPS app when planning to meet or for a delivery.
• Some GPS apps common in the United States do not work in Togo. 

Tourism safety

No formal tourism industry infrastructure is in place:

• Tourists participate in activities at their own risk.
• Emergency medical response services are not readily available. Medical facilities exist but typically do not meet U.S. standards.

U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance. Review our information on Travel Insurance.

Adventure travel 

• Review the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) tips for Adventure Travel.

Local laws and customs

Criminal penalties

U.S. citizens must follow local laws. If you break local laws, even by mistake, you could be arrested, imprisoned, or deported.

• You may be prosecuted in the United States for crimes committed abroad regardless of the local law. Review the information provided by the U.S. Department of Justice about crimes against minors abroad.

• Before you start a business or a profession in Togo, seek information from the local authorities about what permits or licenses are required.

Passport identification

• Local law requires you to always carry your passport. Not having it can lead to detention or a fine.

Drugs

• There are severe penalties in Togo for drug possession, use, or trafficking. Offenders face long jail sentences and high fines.

Photography

• It is illegal to take photos of police or military sites, airports, or any government buildings. If you do, even by mistake, authorities may take your equipment and detain you. 
• Locals in Togo might be sensitive about photography. It’s best to get their approval first. 

Corruption

• Corruption is a significant concern with security forces in Togo. Security officials may harass travelers and ask for bribes. At night, unexpected checkpoints often appear. Police or soldiers at these checkpoints might demand money.

Arrest notification

• If you are arrested or detained, ask officials to immediately notify the U.S. Embassy in Togo.

Detention conditions

Togo’s constitution prohibits arbitrary arrest. It allows people to challenge their detention in court, but laws are inconsistently applied.

• Detainees often struggle to access quality, affordable legal services.
• Security forces and armed groups detain people without legal grounds, especially during security operations. Investigations can be slow and lead to long pretrial detentions. 
• The U.S. embassy may not be able to conduct regular prison visits or communicate with detainees, especially outside of Lome. 
• Detainees must obtain their own food, medicine, and hygiene items.

Counterfeit and pirated goods

Counterfeit and pirated goods are common in many destinations.

• They may be illegal according to local laws.
• Counterfeit and pirated goods may pose significant risks to consumer health and safety.
• You may be subject to fines or must surrender counterfeit and pirated goods to authorities if you bring them back to the United States.
• Learn more about U.S. restrictions on counterfeit and pirated goods:
• U.S. Customs and Border Protection 
• U.S. Department of Justice

Faith-based travelers

Faith-based travel includes pilgrimages, service projects, and mission work.

Change settings

Prepare for your travel using these resources:

• Faith-Based Travel
• Volunteering Abroad
• International Religious Freedom Reports

Gay and lesbian travelers

Togolese local law prohibits “acts against nature committed with an individual of one’s sex.”  This refers to same-sex sexual activity. 

• If you are convicted of engaging in consensual same-sex sexual activity, you may be imprisoned or fined. However, the U.S. embassy has not witnessed Togolese prosecutions against U.S. citizens for same-sex activity to date. 
• Same-sex civil unions or marriages are not recognized by the government.  Gay and lesbian advocacy organizations do not receive official recognition by the government. 
• Societal discrimination is widespread. Gay individuals have experienced psychological abuse. Society views this as corrective punishment.
• Most gay and lesbian people isolate themselves and keep their sexual identity hidden.
• Review our information for Gay and Lesbian Travelers.

Travelers with accessibility needs

The law in Togo does not mandate accessibility to public or private facilities for persons with disabilities. 

• Some buildings may have ramps and wider entrance ways. 
• Expect accessibility to be extremely limited or nonexistent in public transportation, lodging, communication, and general infrastructure in all parts of the country.
• Review our information on Accessibility Needs.

Students

• Review our information on Studying Abroad.

Women travelers

The law prohibits violence against women. However, domestic violence, including spousal abuse, is commonly reported. 

Sexual assault and domestic violence are common in Togo. 

• Wives have limited legal recourse in cases of abuse. There is no reliable data on the extent of sexual assault though it is a problem. 
• Rape cases are usually not sent to trial. Police generally investigate reports of rape, but victims often do not file reports due to cultural barriers and fear of retaliation.
• The minimum age to marry is 18 for females and males. However, child marriages do occur with parental consent.
• The law prohibits forced marriage. Polygyny is allowed, but a woman must agree to it prior to marriage.
• The law prohibits female genital mutilation/cutting (FGM/C) in Togo. Review our information on Female Genital Mutilation and Cutting (FGM/C).
• Review our information for Women Travelers.
• Review our information on Marriage.
• Review our information for Victims of Crime

Human rights

• Review the Department of State’s Human Rights Report for Togo prior to traveling.
• Review our information on Journalist Travelers.

Health

Health resources

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Togo Traveler Information provides destination specific information on prevalent diseases and vaccination recommendations.
• CDC Medical Tourism information
• World Health Organization
• Medicine and Health
• Travel Insurance

Emergency phone numbers

• Dial 117 for police.
• Dial 172 for the gendarmerie.
• Dial 118 for fire (sapeurs pompiers).
• Dial 22-21-25-01 for Main Lome Hospital Sylvanus Olympio (most suitable for trauma injuries).
• Dial + 228- 22-61-54-70 for the U.S. embassy’s duty officer.

Ambulance services

Ambulances are not widely available.  

• Training and availability of emergency responders may be below U.S. standards.
• Injured or very ill travelers must secure their own transportation to the nearest major hospital

Medical payments and insurance

Make sure you know if your health insurance plan covers any medical expenses coverage abroad. Most U.S. plans do not.

• • The U.S. government does not pay medical bills.
• • U.S. Medicare and Medicaid do not cover expenses or bills abroad.
• • Most hospitals and doctors abroad do not accept U.S. health insurance.
• • Hospitals and doctors often require payment upfront prior to service or admission. 
• • Medical care is not free in Togo. If you require medical attention, you will incur expenses, even if you are treated in a public healthcare facility. 
• • Make sure you know if your health insurance plan provides coverage abroad or reimbursement of payments. CDC provides more information on types of insurance. If you purchase medical travel insurance, you are responsible for seeking reimbursement from your medical insurance. Be sure to follow their guidance and instructions for filing claims.

We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.

Vaccinations

The Government of Togo requires [proof of?] a yellow fever vaccination for entry.

Stay up to date with the vaccines recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

• CDC Travelers’ Health
• World Health Organization Travel Advice

Healthcare facilities

Medical facilities in Togo are extremely limited.

• Adequate medical treatment, as well as access to routine and emergency procedures, is often unavailable. Even minor health issues may require medical evacuation.
• Public and private medical clinics lack basic resources and supplies. Care is significantly below U.S. standards of medical care.
• Access to medicines, including antibiotics, can be limited.
• Most clinics only provide very basic services.
• Hospitals and doctors often require payment upfront prior to service or admission. 
• The availability of medicine in local stores or pharmacies is very limited. 
• You should carry prescription medication in its original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription.
• Medical staff may speak little or no English.
• Patients must cover all costs for transfers to or between hospitals.
• Psychological and psychiatric services are extremely limited.

Prescription medications

Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription.

• Consider taking prescription medicine before, during, and after your trip to prevent malaria. Your doctor can help you decide which medicine is right for you and how to prevent illness. Review the CDC website for more information about malaria in Togo.
• Bring enough of your prescriptions, as well as over-the-counter medications, to last the duration of your trip.
• Review the Ministry of Health to ensure the medication is legal in Togo.
• Exercise caution when purchasing medication abroad. Pharmaceuticals are usually easy to buy with few controls.
• Counterfeit medication is common and may not work or may have the wrong strength or dangerous ingredients. You should buy medication with the help of a medical professional and from trusted places.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have rules for bringing medication back into the United States. If you buy medications abroad, the medications must meet CBP’s and the FDA’s requirements to bring them back legally.

The medications must also be for personal use and approved for use in the United States.

For more information:

• U.S. Customs and Border Protection
• Food and Drug Administration

Non-traditional medicine

U.S. citizens have had serious complications or died while getting care from non-traditional “healers” and practitioners in Togo.

• We strongly recommend you avoid receiving local medical care or treatment outside of emergency situations. 
• Make sure you have access to licensed emergency medical facilities in such 

Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) and surrogacy

• Surrogacy is not officially allowed. There are no laws controlling this practice. You should talk to a specialized lawyer to understand the risks. 
• If you are considering traveling to Togo to have a child through use of assisted reproductive technology (ART), please review our information on ART and Surrogacy Abroad.

Water quality and food safety

• Tap water is not safe to drink.
• In some locations, tap water is not available every day.
• • Bottled water and beverages are generally safe. Use major brands and ensure the seal is intact.
• You may want to request no ice in your drinks since it may be made using tap water.
• Eating uncooked vegetables and fruits can make you sick.
• Make water safe by filtering, boiling, disinfecting, or distilling.
• mpure water can cause diseases like typhoid, cholera, hepatitis, and 

Air quality

Air pollution can be a significant problem in many destinations in Togo.

• NASA’s Air Quality Forecast uses Artificial Intelligence (A.I.), historical data, and global pollution modeling to generate a 3-day forecast of expected air quality in Togo.
• CDC’s Air Quality provides information about common air pollutants.
• EPA’s AirNow provides information about the U.S. Air Quality Index and health guidance.
• Review our information on Medicine and Health.

Transportation

Road conditions and safety

Driving in Togo is generally riskier and more challenging than in the United States. Togo has paved roads leading from Lome to most major cities.

• Drivers tend to exceed speed limits, follow other vehicles closely, ignore lane markings, and attempt to pass even when facing oncoming traffic.
• Roadways are poorly lit, marked, and maintained.
• Due to limited street lighting, it is hard to see pedestrians at night.
• Expect to share the road with motorcycles, bicyclists, pedestrians, livestock, and animal carts in both rural and urban areas.
• Overland travel off the main north-south road connecting Lome to Ouagadougou and east-west road connecting Lome to Accra and Cotonou are usually unpaved and may require four-wheel drive. 
• Togo also has a mountainous region abutting Ghana with roads that can rise up to an altitude of 500 meters within a few kilometers of driving.

Exercise extreme caution when traveling by road. The driving culture is chaotic. Vehicles often fail to follow basic traffic laws.

Safety tips: 

• Exercise caution at roundabouts
• Use a 4-wheel drive vehicle with spare tires and emergency supplies. There is no roadside help available. 
• Carry enough drinking water and food.
• Make sure your gas tank is always at least half-full. Gas stations are not widely available.
• Be prepared for drivers who run red lights and stop signs or drive in the wrong direction on one-way streets.
• Don't travel on roads outside cities after dark. Kidnappers, terrorists, and robbers attack travelers on these roads. The roads have poor lighting and few other travelers.

Traffic laws

Driving can be chaotic, particularly in the crowded city center and in the dense neighborhoods along the Ghanaian border.

• Traffic signals often do not function properly or are missing from major intersections.  
• If you are involved in a traffic accident, wait until the police arrive. Do not wait if your health or safety is threatened. 
• Always carry travel documentation with you, including your passport and visa. Due to local law, you must always carry your passport. Failure to do so may lead to detention or a fine. 
• At official checkpoints, Togolese security officials prefer that you approach with your interior light on, and headlights dimmed. Make sure you have your driver’s license, registration, and proof of insurance ready. 
• You should never pay a bribe to the police or gendarmes for them to perform their work or to be released. Be firm and polite.  
• If you cannot reach a resolution, ask for permission to drive with the officer who is making the traffic stop, or trail their vehicle or motorbike, to the nearest police precinct. Do not let the officer enter your vehicle.

Taxis and ride-shares

• Avoid using taxis and ride-shares.

Public and commercial transportation

Safety standards for small, private buses and taxis are substandard. 

• You should exercise caution when using any form of local public transportation. Avoid motorcycle-taxis when possible. 
• Never get into a taxi with unknown passengers and always agree on the fare before getting into the car.
• Review our information on Driving and Transportation Safety Abroad.

Aviation oversight

• The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has not assessed Togo Civil Aviation Authority for compliance with international standards for aviation safety oversight. FAA's website includes more information on its assessment program.

Maritime travel

Mariners and passengers planning travel to Togo  should check the following:

• U.S. Maritime Advisories
• U.S. Maritime Alerts
• Maritime Safety Office Navigational Warnings 
• U.S. Coast Guard Maritime Commons 

Weather and natural disasters 

Weather conditions

Heavy rain and floods

The rainy season in Togo lasts from late May until the end of October. It can cause severe flooding.

• Road travel outside the capital during rainy season is extremely limited.
• Flash floods and riverine floods are common during the rainy season. 
• Floods have happened more often in recent years. They sometimes cause dams to break and destroy homes and crops.

U.S. citizens living abroad

Living abroad resources 

If you live outside the United States for a long time, you or your family may experience major life events (such as marriage, birth of a child, or death of a family member), wish to exercise U.S. citizenship rights, or need to meet U.S. legal obligations while abroad.

• Learn how to prepare for voting in U.S. elections, the birth of a child, or getting married.
• Ensure you have a plan for healthcare and medical insurance abroad.
• Even abroad, you still have certain obligations such as paying your U.S. taxes or registering for military selective service.
• Review information on federal benefits, such as Social Security and 

Embassies and consulates